Name: Rebecca James 
Company: Interior Desires
Position within company: Director
Website: www.interiordesiresuk.com
. Tell us a little about your background in design.
I studied Interior design at Chelsea College of Art and started my company straight after. My first project was the renovation of my house in London which I was lucky enough to get featured in Living Etc in 2005. My career sort of took off from there, mostly working through recommendations and referrals. This year I’m working on a product line with a lighting company to be revealed hopefully before Christmas
. How would you describe your personal interior design style?
I think my work can be sometimes bold but chic. I try to mix different styles together and work with a theme for each space. I try to tailor my interiors to match my client’s personalities. I personally love mid-century Italian design and I’m hugely influenced by the designers from this era.
. Where does your design inspiration come from?
Most of my inspiration comes from fashion. I love the way fashion designers put their collections together, the mixture of colours, materials, textures really inspires me. I’m also inspired by nature and the environment. As much as possible I try to work with natural materials and colours associated with Earth and the environment.
. In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense? I think there has been a backlash against over the top vulgarity and glitziness in the past few years. Designers are now much more pared back and refined in their approach with more organic and natural looking interiors. As with fashion, clients now prefer to invest in statement pieces that hold value and add character to their homes rather than trendy furniture that doesn’t stand the test of time. In other words interiors are becoming more timeless and less trendy.
. Name key themes to consider when approaching design in 2016 and beyond.
I believe you should design whatever you think is right for each project and stay true to yourself as a designer.
. If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to interior design schemes, what would it be?
Always respect the structure and Architecture of a building. It’s very tempting for designers to fall in love with an object and try to force it to work in a space. I believe design should enhance the space rather than undermine it.
. How important are The International Design and Architecture Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
Our industry is very mature and competitive so it’s nice to gain recognition from a reputable organisation. These Awards enhances designer’s reputations and adds value to their offerings in the eyes of their clients and colleagues.
. What projects are you currently working on?
We are working on our first residential project in The US and a few other residential projects in London. We are also working on a lighting collection and a capsule furniture collection.
. What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
We are looking to work more with Developers and delve into the Hotel market. My passion project at the moment is my lighting collection which has taken a lot of effort to put together and we are excited to present it to the world in a few months
. Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself
Your most treasured possession? My daughter and my engagement ring
Your favourite holiday destination? Bali
Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar? Alilas Villas Uluwatu in Bali/ Petrus/ The Connaught bar
Your favourite book / film / song? Tess of the D’Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy/ Pretty Woman/ Cherry Wine by Nas and Amy Winehouse
Your favourite food and drink? Lobster for main and Passion fruit mousse for desert/ Sloe gin fizz
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? I love window shopping with my daughter looking at beautiful things.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be? Well I used to be a ballet dancer and Model before I started interiors. I suppose if I had another choice I’d be an event’s organiser